Hawaii's cost of living is incredibly high and, as spotlighted in recent media reports, a lack of affordable housing plays a major role in the state's teacher shortage crisis and high turnover rate.
Landed is a new program that provides up to half of the down payment (as much as $120,000 per family) on a home for educators, in exchange for repaying the loan and a 25 percent share in the gain (or loss, if any) of the value of the home once it is sold or refinanced. You may see some news coverage about the program, since the Landed company is holding a news conference this morning.
The HSTA welcomes any effort to help educators, however this option may only work for a very small percentage of our members. We will continue to fight for better wages and benefits to ensure teachers don't need financial assistance to afford a home.
See story on HSTA supported bills on teacher housing.
Like any tool, the down payment assistance program has to be right for the job. Some educators may choose this option if the alternative is not being able to purchase a home at all. The program may cost more in the end, compared to mortgage insurance if the value of the home significantly increases.
Down payment assistance is not a long-term solution. Teachers who choose to work with Landed should discuss this option with a trusted expert to ensure it is the best option given the circumstances. When purchasing a home, the Hawaii State Teachers Association advises members to research all loan options and make an informed decision that works best for them.
Landed is hosting a series of information sessions for interested HIDOE employees in mid-May.
- >> RSVP here << May 13 - Kauai: 4-5 p.m., Kauai High School
- >> RSVP here << May 14 - Honolulu: 4-5 p.m., Farrington High School
- >> RSVP here << May 14 - Windward Oahu: 4-5 p.m., Castle High School
- >> RSVP here << May 15 - Central Oahu: 4-5 p.m., Mililani High School
- >> RSVP here << May 15 - Leeward Oahu: 4-5 p.m., Kapolei High School
- >> RSVP here << May 16 - Maui: 4-5 p.m., Maui High School
- >> RSVP here << May 17 - Kona: 4-5 p.m., Konawaena High School
- >> RSVP here << May 17 - Hilo: 4-5 p.m., Waiakea High School
If you don’t see an event near you listed, you can contact Landed’s team directly at: www.landed.com/signup
Disclaimer: HSTA is not endorsing this program but wants to give our members information so they can make informed decisions affecting their family finances.
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